Launch Your Career as a Utility Systems Operator in Reno, NV
Are you a dedicated professional with a background in mechanical maintenance and facility operations? The Department of Veterans Affairs is currently seeking a talented Utility Systems Operator to join our team at the Sierra Nevada Health Care System in Reno, Nevada. This is an incredible opportunity to work in a mission-driven environment where your daily efforts directly support the health and well-being of the veterans who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
As a Utility Systems Operator, you are the backbone of our medical center's mechanical infrastructure. Your primary duties will include:
- Boiler Operations: Managing and repairing high-pressure boilers, including fuel systems and water treatment.
- HVAC Management: Maintaining central air conditioning plants and utilizing computer-based control systems to regulate facility-wide temperature and ventilation.
- Emergency Response: Monitoring fire, elevator, and medical gas alarms, and taking immediate action during emergency scenarios.
- System Upkeep: Inspecting piping, air compressors, and pollution control equipment to prevent failures.
| Feature | Requirement / Details |
|---|---|
| Salary | $29.95 - $34.95 / Hour |
| Job Type | Full-Time Mechanical |
| Location | Reno, Nevada |
| Security | Non-Sensitive / Low Risk |
Requirements
To be considered for this role, applicants must demonstrate hands-on experience and technical competence. While there is no specific length of training required, your resume must clearly illustrate your ability to maintain complex systems without constant supervision. You must be able to handle physical tasks, including lifting up to 100 pounds and working on ladders or scaffolding.
Salary and Benefits
Employees of the Veterans Affairs enjoy competitive hourly wages and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement planning, and generous paid time off. You will also become part of a professional network with significant opportunities for career advancement.
Application Tips
- Keep your resume concise—the federal government now enforces a strict two-page limit for this position.
- Be specific about your experience with boilers and HVAC systems.
- Save all documents as PDFs to ensure they upload correctly.
- Apply well before the September 30, 2026, deadline.
If you are looking for a stable career with a meaningful mission, the role of Utility Systems Operator at the Reno VA is an excellent choice. Apply today to start your journey with the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Why This Utility Systems Operator Job Matters
Join the VA team in beautiful Reno and keep our critical facilities running smoothly as a Utility Systems Operator.
Utility Systems Operator Job Overview
The Veterans Affairs Sierra Nevada Health Care System is seeking skilled Utility Systems Operators to maintain the essential infrastructure of our medical center. You will be responsible for the daily operation and repair of high-pressure boilers, industrial air conditioning plants, and sophisticated climate control systems. This role is vital for ensuring the safety and comfort of our nation’s veterans in a high-stakes medical environment.
Requirements for Utility Systems Operator
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Ability to perform technical duties without more than normal supervision.
- Must pass an annual physical examination for plant operators.
- Must be comfortable working from ladders, scaffolding, and platforms.
- Must be able to lift and maneuver parts and equipment weighing up to 100 pounds.
- Subject to a background and suitability investigation.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Must complete a 1-year probationary period.
Preferred Qualifications for Utility Systems Operator
- Experience in the operation and repair of high-pressure steam boilers.
- Proficiency with industrial HVAC systems and computer-based control systems like Johnson METASYS.
- Knowledge of water softening and chemical treatment processes.
- Capability to perform emergency repairs on air compressor systems and piping.
- Experience in monitoring safety alarms, including fire, police, and medical gas systems.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options.
- ✓Generous retirement plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Paid vacation time, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Career growth opportunities within the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- ✓Work-life balance with the potential for flexible shifts.
💡 How to Apply Utility Systems Operator Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Utility Systems Operator Job
- Visit the USAJOBS portal to create or update your profile.
- Prepare a resume no longer than two pages to meet agency requirements.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including proof of experience and certifications.
- Submit your final application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically details your experience with boiler and HVAC systems to help the reviewers assess your qualifications.
- Use PDF format for all documents to ensure formatting remains consistent.
- Review your resume for compliance with the two-page limit to avoid disqualification.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS account dashboard.
- Ensure your contact information is up-to-date in case HR needs to reach you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this position is onsite at the VA Medical Center in Reno, Nevada, as it requires daily hands-on operation and maintenance of facility machinery.
What is the pay range for this role?
The salary for this position is between $29.95 and $34.95 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.
Are there physical requirements for this job?
Yes, the role involves lifting equipment up to 100 pounds, working in confined or hard-to-reach spaces, and performing tasks from ladders or scaffolding.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. We pride ourselves on our core values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence (I CARE). Located in the heart of the Sierra Nevada, our Reno facility offers a unique blend of high-tech medical support and proximity to world-class outdoor recreation, including Lake Tahoe and stunning mountain landscapes.